Ontario's Special Investigations Unit has been called to look into an overnight shooting involving Toronto police that left one man dead and another facing five firearms-related charges.
Officers executed a warrant at an apartment building on Dunbloor Road, near Kipling Avenue and Bloor Street West, in Toronto's west end shortly after 1 a.m., Wednesday.
One resident described hearing someone, presumably police, yelling "Get down! Get down!" before hearing a big bang and a thump.
Resident and makeup artist Linda Preston, who drove upon the scene in its aftermath, said she thought it was a film shoot at first -- until she noticed there weren't any cameras.
Most residents said the building was a nice, quiet residence.
The SIU confirms that members of Toronto's Emergency Task Force and the Guns and Gangs units were involved in the search.
A 26-year-old resident of the building was shot during the incident. He was rushed to St. Michael's Hospital for treatment, but died of injuries suffered in the shooting.
Family friend Antonius Clarke identified the victim as Eric Osawe. He said Osawe was a troubled young man who had recently been released from prison.
A second man was arrested at the scene. Police say they have charged Ebony Osawe, 23, of Toronto with:
- possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition
- careless storage of a firearm
- unauthorized possession of a firearm
- careless storage of ammunition
- possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace
He is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
Five investigators and three forensic investigators from the SIU are taking part in the investigation.
Anyone who may have information regarding this case is asked to contact the Special Investigations Unit at 416-622-0748 or 1-800-787-8529.
The SIU is a civilian law enforcement agency that investigates incidents involving police that have resulted in a serious injury or death.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Janice Golding
